Main Street DeFuniak Springs earns accreditation

DEFUNIAK SPRINGS, Fla.— Main Street DeFuniak Springs has been designated as an Accredited Main Street America program, Main Street DeFuniak Springs and Main Street America announced in a joint statement.

The statement said Main Street DeFuniak Springs earned the designation by meeting Main Street America’s rigorous performance standards.

The statement said that each year, Main Street America and its partners announce the list of accredited programs to recognize their exceptional commitment to preservation-based economic development and community revitalization through the Main Street program.

“We are extremely proud to recognize this year’s 863 nationally Accredited Main Street America programs that have worked tirelessly to advance economic vitality and quality of life in their downtowns and commercial districts,” said Patrice Frey, President & CEO of Main Street America.

“During another incredibly challenging year, these programs demonstrated the power of the Main Street movement to respond to the needs of their communities. I am inspired by their steadfast leadership and innovative solutions to drive essential local recovery efforts, support small businesses, and nurture vibrant downtown districts.”

According to the statement, last year, Main Street America programs generated $5.76 billion in local reinvestment, helped open 6,601 net new businesses, generated 30,402 net new jobs, catalyzed the rehabilitation of 10,595 historic buildings, and leveraged 1,427,729 volunteer hours. On average, every dollar a Main Street program spent to support its operations generated $19.34 of new investment back into Main Street communities.

Main Street DeFuniak Springs’ performance is annually evaluated by Florida Main Street, which works in partnership with Main Street America to identify the local programs that meet rigorous national performance standards.

Evaluation criteria determine the communities that are building meaningful and sustainable revitalization programs and include standards such as fostering strong public-private partnerships, supporting small and locally owned businesses, and actively preserving historic places, spaces, and cultural assets.

In 2021, Main Street DeFuniak Springs welcomed nine new or relocating businesses into its district, many of whom invested significantly in renovating and restoring their brick-and-mortar locations. While hosting 62 events in the fiscal year, Main Street DeFuniak Springs’ volunteers invested 400+ hours of service in 2021, valued at more than $11,400.